Since I have opinions on almost everything, it surprises even myself that I haven't posted on this topic yet. Maybe, because I just feel that it is not all that important. But feelings do run strong on this subject. Even though the internet is about 15 years 'new' in most households in many ways it is still a crawling infant. As wonderous as the new discoveries are, dangers exist. Privacy and anonimity are highly valued by most Americans. Use of nicknames is O.K. but the danger is that there are those who live some strange lives vicariously on the internet. I'm an old-line, hard nosed Goldwater conservative and die-hard Constitutionalist. But reality is that privacy in the real world is no more. I will reveal my name on some lists, others I prefer to avoid crackpot e-mails. Particpation on various discussion lists have made me dozens of e-friends. And, I have managed to meet a number in person who are now close, in person, friends. One came from England and spent almost two weeks with me and other, previous e-friends, hunting and discussing history. Another and his wife spent a week in our home traveling from Hawaii. And there are a dozen more who might drop in or would welcome me in their homes on little or no notice. Whatever the subject, pens, old guns, history, I believe that America of old still exists in commonality of mutual interests and trust.
if that is your real name???[
